Previously, we noted that All Aboard Florida’s done deal was coming undone. Martin, St. Lucie and Indian River Counties are trying to make sure that’s so.
These counties are scheduled to meet with an Administrative Law Judge on December 19-22 to address a permit granted to All Aboard Florida by the South Florida Water Management District. This is not just a public comment, this is a legal challenge.
The challenge relates to AAF impacts on wetlands, degraded water quality and harm to endangered species. In addition, the counties believe SFWMD failed to consider that high speed passenger trains are fundamentally different than lumbering freight trains.
All three counties are determined to protect the natural resources and quality of life of their residents from the invasion of All Aboard Florida. We stand with the counties.
AAF appears to be losing ground as their plans continue to be challenged. Already they can’t sell their bonds to raise needed capital. And, their parent company, Fortress, may abandon the freight business. Now some of their permits to proceed may be revoked. No permit means no deal. All Aboard Florida is not only coming undone, they may be done.